Johnny Cantor: Albion already moving on from play-off heartbreak

Seagulls fans should be proud of the support they have given this season

Published:06:30Friday 20 May 2016

Ifs and buts and maybes. I’m sure there has been a few in conversations over the last few days for Albion fans. However, the overriding feeling from fans who contacted The Final Whistle on BBC Sussex was pride.

The next day things were moving on. The club posted a photo of the boardroom drawing up plans for the summer and beyond. Then a new deal for the manager was announced. Chris Hughton rewarded for his endeavours with a new four-year contract.

Next I’m sure we will hear who is staying and who is going. Then come the summer signings. Across the season the team had momentum and it is important the club continue to look forward.

The disappointment will still be there but in football you simply can’t stand still. Or do so at you peril. Of course it is important in life, your career, or on holiday to take stock and assess. On the mayhem of a ten-month season that is certainly tricky. However, you get the feeling at Brighton it is clear at all levels what is required.

It will not be easy to mount another concerted push for promotion but the foundation is there. Many of the players are there. And they have a manager who should be in place there until 2020.

The signing of one or maybe two strikers will be key to success next season but you feel chairman Tony Bloom is prepared to back Hughton.

With the right choices maybe Albion can storm the league like Reading a few years ago. I’m not really a fan of reports, rumours and links over potential new signings but this year will be even more key due to the changes in the loan market next season.

I’ve written before about the need to keep the best players and that remains a priority. It’s fair to say the club is no longer under the radar. Expectation will be high.

We will just have to wait and see if they can finally deliver and fans can be spared the agony of another near miss. There’s plenty to look forward to and the fans should be proud of the support they have given. I’m sure they won’t dwell on the final few games. Why would you, next thing you know we will be looking forward to the first game of next season.